FOOD STAMPS

What are Food Stamps? 

Food Stamp benefits help low income individuals purchase food.  Authorized Food Stamp benefits are placed into an account.  The benefits are accessed at grocery stores using an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.

How do I apply for Food Stamps?

To make an application, come into the New Hanover County Department of Social Services located at 1650 Greenfield Street.  A Food Stamp Worker will conduct an interview with you to start the process.  To help speed the process along, please bring the following verifications:

• Identification
• Social Security Cards or numbers for all (including children)
• Proof of Residence - (Lease, rent or mortgage receipts, Utility Bill)
• Proof of Income - (Pay stubs, SSI, Social Security, Work First, Pensions or Other)
• Bank Accounts - (Recent bank statements and or passbooks, etc.)
• Utility Bills - (Gas, Electric, Phone, Water, and Sewer, etc.)
• Tax Bill/Insurance - If Homeowner
• If Elderly/Disabled - (Unpaid medical bills, Prescriptions, Health and Hospital Insurance)
• Name and phone number of at least 1 person who can verify who lives with you.
• Proof of Child Care Costs - (If employed or in school full time).
• If you are unable to come into the office, you can appoint someone you trust to represent you in the office or an application can be taken over the phone or by a home visit.

What can I buy with Food Stamps?

You can only use food stamp benefits for food and for plants and seeds to grow food for your family to eat.  Food Stamp benefits cannot be used to buy:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Tobacco or cigarettes
• Household supplies, soaps, and paper products
• Disposable diapers
• Medicines or vitamins
• Any other non-food items
• Hot foods that are ready to eat, such as barbecued chicken
• Pet foods

When will my Food Stamp benefits go into my account?

Your benefits will be available after 6:00 a.m. on the same day each month according to the last digit of the head of household's Social Security Number, even if that day is on a weekend or a holiday.  For instance:

I have received my EBT card. How can I get it activated?

Bring your EBT card and some form of identification (a picture I.D. is preferred) to our office.  You must receive training on how to use your EBT card and you must have a personal identification number (PIN) to activate your card.  After your training class we will assist you in activating your card.

Call the E-FUNDS toll free customer service number, 1-888-622-7328.  They are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  You should receive the card in the mail within 7 days.  Bring the new EBT card to our office to select a PIN number and to have your new card activated.

WHAT IS THE EBT CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBER?

The toll free number is 1-888-622-7328 and they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

MEDICAID

CAN I GET MEDICAID?

Medicaid pays for covered medical and health care services for eligible families with children and for adults who are:

• 65 or older
• Blind
• Disabled
• The caretaker of a child under age 19 who receives Medicaid, or pregnant

Resources are considered when determining eligibility for most programs.   Income limits are based on the federal poverty level and range from 100 to 200% of the federal poverty level depending on the program for which you are eligible.

WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF DISABILITY?

As defined by Social Security, it is a physical or mental impairment which prevents an individual from engaging in any substantial, gainful activity, and which has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months, or is expected to result in death.  To apply for disability benefits, you must apply through the Social Security Administration offices, 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (TTY).

WHERE CAN I GET AN FL-2 FOR THE NURSING HOME?

You may pick up an FL-2 at the Medicaid reception desk at the Department of Social Services.  You may call 341-4716 and request one be sent to you through the mail.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR MEDICAID?

To make an application, you or someone you trust to represent you, should visit the Department of Social Services in the county where you live.  New Hanover County Department of Social Services is located at 1650 Greenfield Street, telephone number is 798-3400.  If you are unable to go to Social Services, you may request a home visit. You may request an application to be mailed to you.  You are not required to take anything with you when applying; however, it is helpful if you have your Social Security Number, proof of your income and information about your resources (such as recent bank statements for all accounts, insurance policies, health insurance cards).  If you are self-employed, your business records and/or tax records would be helpful.

If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you are automatically covered for Medicaid.  You may apply for SSI at the nearest local Social Security Office.  You can call the Social Security Office at 1-800-772-1213 or 1-800-325-0778 (TTY) between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. for more information.

HOW CAN I GET A NEW MEDICAID CARD?

New Medicaid cards are mailed to recipients at the beginning of each month.  It may take up to the first 10 business days of the month to receive your card.  If you do not receive your card when needed or if you misplace your card, contact your Medicaid worker regarding a replacement card.

WHICH DOCTORS OR DENTISTS ACCEPT MEDICAID?

Medicaid benefits and eligibility vary according to a person's circumstances.  Some individuals may be serviced by Carolina ACCESS which is a managed care program that links you with a personal doctor who accepts Medicaid.  This doctor is referred to as your Primary Care Provider.  If you are not linked by Carolina ACCESS you will need to contact individual doctor's or dentist's offices to see if they accept Medicaid.  Your local Department of Social Services may be able to provide the names of doctors and dentists who are known to accept Medicaid patients.

WHAT IS CAROLINA ACCESS?

Carolina Access is a Medicaid managed care program.  As a Medicaid recipient you must participate in this program unless you receive Medicaid as a pregnant woman, a child in foster care, a Community Alternative Program (CAP) participant, or you have Medicare.

WILL MEDICAID PAY FOR MY CARE IN A NURSING HOME?

If you meet eligibility requirements, Medicaid will pay for some portion of your cost of care in a long term skilled or intermediate care facility as well as medical expenses.

WILL THE STATE TAKE MY HOME IF I GET MEDICAID?

If you receive CAP or are in a long term care facility, estate recovery may apply to you.  This means at the time of your death the government may make a claim against your estate to recover the money paid to medical providers on your behalf.

CAN I GET A CHECK ALONG WITH MEDICAID?

Medicaid pays the medical provider directly.  No payment is made to the recipient.  Persons residing in Adult Care Homes (often called rest homes) may be eligible for a check under the Special Assistance Program to help pay for their monthly cost of care in the home.  Clients who qualify for WFFA get a check and Medicaid.

WORK FIRST

WHAT IS WORK FIRST?

Work First is a temporary assistance for needy families.   Recipients of Work First Financial Assistance are required to get a job, paid or unpaid, or be in short term training within 12 weeks.  The goal of Work First is to help parents support their children through work.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR WORK FIRST?

To make an application, come into the New Hanover County Department of Social Services during regular business hours.  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

MISCELLANEOUS

I HAVE MOVED TO NEW HANOVER COUNTY FROM ANOTHER PART OF THE STATE.  HOW DO I GET MY BENEFITS TRANSFERRED? 

You need to notify the county from which you came of your move.  You must reapply for Food Stamps in the county where you live.  Most other programs can transfer your case to your new county of residence. 

CAN I GET HELP WITH TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM WORK, MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS?

If you are receiving Medicaid and you need assistance getting to medical treatment, call the Transportation Coordinator at 798-3752 for last names beginning with A – K or 798-3751 L – Z  or come into the New Hanover County Department of Social Services. 

Assistance with transportation to and from work is based on income and availability of funds.  You will need to see a social worker in Services Intake.  Call 798-3420 to make an appointment.

CAN I GET SOCIAL SECURITY AND MEDICARE FROM SOCIAL SERVICES?

Social Security and Medicare are both administered by the Social Security Administration located at  1528 S. 16th Stree.  Social Services administers the Medicaid program.

HOW DO I REPORT FRAUD?

If you suspect fraudulent activity involving Medicaid Providers (doctors, pharmacies, etc.,), you should contact the Program Integrity Section of the North Carolina Division of Medical Assistance.  You can reach the Program Integrity Section toll-free by calling the CARE-LINE at 1-800-662-7030 and asking for the DMA Program Integrity Section. 

To report fraudulent activity involving grocers, you should contact the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) at 910-790-2929.

To report recipient fraud in any program, contact the Department of Social Services in which the recipient lives.  For New Hanover County Department of Social Services, call 798-3400.

HOW CAN I GET HELP WITH GETTING MY CHILD SUPPORT?

Child Support Enforcement services are available to anyone who has custody of a minor dependent child regardless of income.  Child Support Enforcement can help in location of absent parents, establishment of paternity for children born outside of marriage, establishment of support obligations, collection and distribution of support, and enforcement of support obligations.  In New Hanover County, child support is contracted to DynTek.  The office is located at 108 Cinema Drive in Wilmington.  Call 343-3355 for an appointment. 

How do I apply for a job with DSS?

The New Hanover County Department of Human resources accepts applications on behalf of the Department of Social Services.  Applications for Economic Services are accepted on an on-going basis and are maintained by the County Department of Human Resources.  The Department of Social Services requests applications as vacancies occur.

All other vacancies are advertised.  The County Department of Human Resources accepts applications for these vacancies as they occur and forwards them to the Department of Social Services. 

You may contact the Department of Human Resources regarding the status of vacancies within the county, including the Department of Social Services.  The number is (910) 798-7178.  New Hanover County also has a “Job Line” number that consists of a recording listing job opportunities within the county.  That number is (910) 798-7163.  You may also visit New Hanover County’s web site at  www.nhcgov.com . 

What are your hours?

The agency is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday - 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Wednesday - 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Who is over the Director?

The Director of Social Services is appointed by the Board of Social Services in accordance with the merit system rules of the State Personnel Commission.

How do I get to your office?

The New Hanover County Department of Social Services is located between 16th and 17th Streets at 1650 Greenfield Street.  Some familiar landmarks that are close to our facility are the Wilmington Housing Authority the Social Security Administration and the Scottish Rite Temple.

If my teenager wants to get a job, what do I have to do?

If your child is between the ages of 14 and 17, you must obtain an Employment Youth Work Certificate.  You can pick up the Employment Certificate at the Main Reception Desk located in the entrance lobby of the New Hanover County DSS.  Employment Certificates can also be picked up at the following locations:

FOSTER CARE/ADOPTION

What information can be released from an adoption file?

Adoption files in North Carolina are not open to the public.  Only non-identifying information and any health history that might be available can be shared with an adoptee.

Who can apply to become a foster parent?

Anyone who is 21 years or older, has a safe home, source of income, and has patience and love for children can apply to become a foster parent.  They should contact their local Department of Social Services.  In New Hanover County, call 798-3545 regarding the application and training process.

What is the process for adopting a child?

The first step in adopting a child is to contact your local Department of Social Services.  In New Hanover County, call 798-3475 to set up an appointment.  A social worker will meet with you to discuss your goals and desires, and will direct you toward the next step in the adoption process.

CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES-INVESTIGATIONS

When should a Children’s Protective Services report be made?

Reporting child abuse or neglect is the first step in protecting a child from further harm.  If you suspect that a child is being abused or neglected, you should file a report with your local Department of Social Services.  If it is an emergency, contact your local law enforcement agency.  Your information can be given anonymously, if desired.

How is child abuse/neglect defined?

When children are abused, they have been seriously hurt, either physically or emotionally.  This may also include any type of sexual abuse.

When children are neglected, they have not received proper care or supervision.  This may include children who do not receive necessary medical attention, who are inadequately fed or clothed, or who are inappropriately disciplined.  Neglect also includes children who are left alone for long periods of time, or are living in a dangerous environment due to substance abuse by their caretakers.

What services are available for children exhibiting dangerous behavior?

A parent or caretaker can call Law Enforcement, the Office of Juvenile Justice or Southeastern Center for Mental Health, depending on the behavior that the child is exhibiting.

Why do you have to talk to my children alone?

If a child has the capacity for speech, the child must be interviewed, preferably in private and, under no circumstances, in the presence of the person or persons alleged to have caused or allowed abuse or neglect.

Do you have the right to talk to my children without my permission?

Yes.  If any person obstructs or interferes with an investigation, the director may file a petition requesting an order directing the person to cease such obstruction or interference.  Obstruction or interference includes refusing to allow the social worker to interview the child in private.

Who is the reporter?  I have the right to know.

The reporter’s name remains confidential unless the department is court ordered to release that information.

HOW DO I REPORT THAT A CHILD IS BEING ABUSED OR NEGLECTED?

Call New Hanover County Department of Social Services during normal business hours at 798-3420.  After hours, on weekends and holidays, call 911. 

ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES

My mother needs to be placed in a nursing home.  What can I do?

First, we talk about why the person feels that their parent needs to go to a nursing home.  Does the mother have capacity to make decisions for herself?  We then talk about the placement process and refer them to DSS-Services Intake pod to obtain a placement packet.

My father won’t cooperate, i.e. take his medicine.  What can I do?

Adults have a right to make bad choices.  Does he understand the consequences of his actions?  If you  feel your father is at risk,  make an Adult Protective Services report by calling 798-3420.

I think someone is taking my mother’s check.  What can I do?

You should make an Adult Protective Services report alleging exploitation by calling 798-3420.

What happens once aN ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES report is made?

An evaluation is initiated and completed by the social worker to determine the need for protective services.  Services are provided as needed.

Why can’t you tell me who made the report?

The information is confidential unless the agency is court ordered to release that information.

What can I do to help my neighbor who is not taking care of herself?

You need to make an Adult Protective Services report alleging self neglect by calling 798-3420.

SERVICES INTAKE/AT RISK

How old does my child have to be before I can leave him alone?

Fire code law requires a child to be 8 yrs. old to be left alone.  Other than that it is dependent on the maturity of child,  the safety plan for emergency and length of time the child is alone.  We assess each situation on a case by case basis.

Can you come get my out of control teen?  I can’t handle him/her anymore.

Parents are responsible for their children until they reach age 18.  We will be happy to review counseling resources with you.

How do I get emancipated?

For a child under age 18 to be emancipated, a petition must be filed with the Clerk of Court and a hearing held to determine whether there is evidence to support emancipation.  A child must be self-supporting in order to be emancipated.

As a reporter of abuse or neglect, can I be anonymous and still get information as to the outcome of an investigation?

No, we can only respond to you if you are willing to give your name.  Reporters names are confidential and can only be released by court order.

SERVICES INTAKE

How do I apply for assistance in paying for my child’s day care?

You can call New Hanover County Department of Social Services at 798-3400 to make an appointment to come in and complete an application.

What are the income limits for child day care? 

It depends on the number in the household.  For example for a family of 2, the maximum gross monthly income is $2,309.00.  For a family of 3, it is $2,852.00. For a family of 4, it is $3,396.00.  Please call 798-3440 if you would like more information.

Can you recommend a CHILD day care provider? 

Our Resource & Referral Source is Child Advocacy Commission.  Their number is 791-6270.  You can also look up provider names, addresses, and information on the internet,  www.ncchildcare.net.

How do I become a CHILD day care provider? 

Call Child Advocacy Commission, 791-6270.  They have a packet for $5.00  telling the steps you take to become a licensed home or licensed center.  For a non-licensed provider, you must complete a criminal record check and a home inspection.  If you are a non-relative, you must have a TB test and complete a first aid course.  The criminal record information must be sent to the state and we must receive approval from the state before the provider can be paid.  This could take 6 months before DSS would make a payment.

Do you offer transportation to and from the child DAY care provider? 

Transportation is offered in certain situations.  The worker would need to assess the needs of the client on a case by case basis.  If you would like more information, please call 798-3440.

When are the checks mailed to the providers? 

Providers who are already in our system will receive their checks around the 15^th of each month.

LOW INCOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (LIEAP)

WHEN are applications taken for LIEAP?

Normally applications are taken the first two weeks in November of each year.

Who do I contact to inquire about LIEAP?

Contact the New Hanover County Department of Social Services 798-3400.

When are the LIEAP checks sent out?

LIEAP checks are mailed the first week of February each year.

Why was I denied a LIEAP check? / Is my name on the list to receive a LIEAP check this year?

For any questions on LIEAP eligibility, call New Hanover Department of Social Services 798-3400.